The breast is the best

TAMPA, Florida (WFLA) -- There are many health benefits to breastfeeding, and now the federal government is stepping in to make it easier for new moms.

The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, requires that insurance companies cover the expense of breast pumps and lactation consultant for new mothers.

"It's definitely a change for the better. Insurance companies are still working out the details and trying align vendors and lactation services and how they're going to meet that need for these mothers," says nurse Wendi Goodson-Celerin.

It's a popular improvement in care for moms and new babies.

Taxpayers will be footing the bill for the rental fee for hospital grade breast pumps, but some insurers are offering to pay for lighter, less expensive consumer models.